Green Business Opportunities Abound For Entrepreneurs
The global economic downturn has created employment opportunities for savvy entrepreneurs in the clean technology industry. The government stimulus plan and changing public sentiment about our future has made clean energy the most popular area of the green energy industry. Government investment in renewable energy, predictions of an electric gridlock in the next few years, and exploding venture capital investment in clean technology are sure signs that green businesses have a healthy future.
According to a recent report by Cleantech Group, an industry research firm and Deloitte, clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaled almost $2 billion in the first quarter of 2010, up more than 80% from a year ago. These clean technology investments in solar, biofuels, batteries and the smart grid accounted for 27% of all investment dollars in the third quarter - more than both the IT and biotech sectors.
The attractiveness of this green business is partly due to the expansion of clean technologies. While predominately focused on renewable energies in the past, clean technology has spread to other areas, including: air, water and waste, energy efficiency, green building, smart power and transportation. This expansion has led to opportunities for many entrepreneurs in the alternative energy, renewable energy and clean technology businesses.
Although clean technology opportunities exist for entrepreneurs, only those really passionate about alternative energy and clean technology will succeed because it’s going to take time before it all works.
If you really want to get involved in clean technology but don’t have a science background, don’t worry - these green businesses will still need individuals experienced in business development, marketing and finance.
It makes good sense to attend classes and get certification. Several organizations offer professional training and certification and many college offer sustainability certfication courses.
Another thing you can do is get involved in trade associations and volunteer your time. This is a great way to learn about the industry, create a network and expose yourself to professionals in the business.
Clean technology has a bright future that offers passionate entrepreneurs business opportunities in the green business industry.
source: entrepreneur.com
